Wiped-Out Footprints (1999)

Wiped-Out Footprints Poster
Original Title: Las huellas borradas

Manuel is a Spanish writer who has emigrated to Argentina. He hears that his childhood village in Spain is to be turned into a reservoir, and returns for one last trip. There he meets widow Virginia, an old love, and begins to hope that he might reignite the flame between them. As old secrets are revealed, the villagers must come to terms with their imminent loss and the drowning of their home.

Plot Summary
"Wiped-Out Footprints" is a 1999 Italian drama movie directed by Michele Placido. The movie centers around the thrilling story of two Sicilian siblings, Pietro and Giovanni, who are required to leave to Northern Italy after an unfortunate occasion that takes place in their home town. The movie deals with styles of migration, family relationships, and the struggle for survival and adaptation in a completely various environment.

Main Characters
The bros, Pietro and Giovanni, are the main characters in the movie. Giovanni, the older one, is a hot-tempered and rebellious soul who can't seem to avoid difficulty, while Pietro is the more accountable and fully grown one, who dreams of an intense future for both of them. They share a deep bond despite their contrasting characters, and their intriguing relationship forms the backbone of the movie.

Dispute and Climax
When Giovanni gets associated with a bar brawl causing a guy's death back in Sicily, the brothers are forced to leave behind everything they have known and liked, seeking security far in Northern Italy. There, they find operate in a scrap lawn and aim to develop a new life, while continuously residing in fear of being discovered by the authorities or the cruel family of the deceased.

The climax of the movie gets here when their previous ultimately overtakes them and, in spite of their attempts to avert the law, Giovanni gets captured and returned to Sicily. This wrenching separation is a defining moment in the movie, emphasizing the harsh truths that immigrants frequently deal with, and the sacrifices made in the look for a safe house.

Conclusion
"Wiped-Out Footprints" is basically a remarkable tale of survival, brotherhood, and the human spirit, embeded in the background of immigration concerns still prevalent today. The ending is heartrending yet powerful, as Pietro, the more youthful bro, must deal with the extreme reality of life without his older sibling.

In spite of the troubles, he chooses to continue their dream of a much better life, driven by the strong will and determination inherited from Giovanni. The movie ends with Pietro promising to make the best of his life in Northern Italy, in memory of his bro and the dreams they as soon as shared together.

Analysis
Through "Wiped-Out Footprints", director Michele Placido presents a psychological portrayal of the human battle for survival within foreign surroundings. The expedition of brotherhood, duty, love, and the consistent endeavor for a better life paints a gripping photo of the intricacies of migration. The titular 'eliminated footprints' function as a metaphor for the impermanent and unsteady lifestyles that immigrants are required to lead.

The raw, gritty nature of the movie, paired with strong efficiencies by the lead stars make this a compelling narrative. With subtle nods to political and social problems, Placido handles to highlight the predicament and strength of immigrants, making this a significant piece of Italian cinema.

Top Cast

  • Federico Luppi (small)
    Federico Luppi
    Manuel
  • Héctor Alterio (small)
    Héctor Alterio
    Don José
  • Mercedes Sampietro (small)
    Mercedes Sampietro
    Virginia
  • Elena Anaya (small)
    Elena Anaya
    Rosa
  • Asunción Balaguer (small)
    Asunción Balaguer
    Leoni
  • Sergi Calleja (small)
    Sergi Calleja
    Delfín
  • Armando del Río (small)
    Armando del Río
    Mito
  • Mariví Bilbao (small)
    Mariví Bilbao
    Felisa
  • Joan Dalmau (small)
    Joan Dalmau
    Don Paulino
  • Ramón Barea (small)
    Ramón Barea
    Zayas
  • Mario Pardo (small)
    Mario Pardo
    Vicente